Schools in Louisiana will soon be a little more eco-friendly, if the Louisiana branch of the U.S. Green Building Council has its way. The group has launched its first Louisiana Green Schools Challenge to help schools implement low- or no-cost projects to reduce energy costs.

Beginning in September, the council will offer a network of architecture, engineering and construction experts to help schools. The most effective projects will receive cash prizes next year.

Ben Franklin High in New Orleans is the first school to sign up, said council spokeswoman Kimberly Tseng. She is reaching out to superintendents, parent-teacher associations and teachers unions across the state.

"We are thrilled to participate," Franklin student Anna Bell Hines said. "I'm working on a website that we can set up for students all over the state to post their status, ideas and questions."

The council is announcing its program Wednesday to mark World Environment Day.